Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Character


3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 5:3-5 (New Living Translation)

I have spent years worrying over what others think of me. I have spent countless amounts of energy trying to please people. I have bent over backwards, just so I would not offend someone. And when it comes down to it........... nothing has been gained.

Character as defined by Dictionary.com: the aggregate (is a collection of items that are gathered together to form a total quantity)of features (is a distinct property)  and traits ( a distinguishing characteristic or quality, esp. of one's personal nature) that form the individual nature of some person or thing.

How then is my character developed?

....................................................................... over time.

In education, we talk about building character based on the SIX Pillars:

TRUSTWORTHINESS
RESPECT
RESPONSIBILITY
FAIRNESS
CARING
CITIZENSHIP

How does my character "stack" up?  hmmmm.....

Let's look at the opposites:
Untrustworthy
Disrespectful
Irresponsible
Unjust
Uncaring
Disregards others

If I want to build my character, it must begin with ME. I choose my actions and my reactions. I choose to work on my character or not. I choose to be one way or the other.... it is all my choice.  I will take ownership of my own character.... not based on other's opinions of me, but of my own opinion of myself.   

lastly..... I had to put this in... because even I get the two confused from time to time.....

"Often people confuse reputation with character. Reputation put simply is what people think you are and character is what you truly are."- Jack Martin





Sunday, September 19, 2010

When life hurts...

Never misunderstand pain as permission to forego the will of God.- Beth Moore

I can testify that life is not always easy. I have loved and lost. I have been burdened. I have waited on the Lord to answer pray. I have been deceived, disappointed, used and misunderstood.

Even when we don't understand the "why" behind the pain now..... God's glory will be worth it in the end.

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time [are] not worthy [to be compared] with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Romans 8:18


In loving memory of Spencer Perkins

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Through Text and Facebook, the masses came to pray!

This past Sunday, a 17 yr. old young man was critically injured as a result of a freak hunting accident. He is a junior where my son attends high school. He is fighting for his life. His family is hurting now more than ever as they wait for news of his condition every moment,

every hour,

every second.....

waiting..... longing..... not knowing..... hoping...... praying.........

Within 2 hours of the news spreading about this tragedy, students, parents, friends, facebook buddies, and families began spreading the word to pray. Through this spreading of the word, a prayer vigil was set-up and within an hour the gym at the school was packed. Students had to stand along the walls and in the doorway, because there wasn't a seat left.

We hear a lot about how technology is destroying children, individuals, and families, but I can tell  you personally that I was never so proud to be a "techno-geek" Sunday night. Word spread like wildfire of the prayer vigil. Students and parents posted prayer request for this precious child on Facebook and by text.

Prayer works. I believe that.

Today, we lift up this child, this son, this brother, this friend to the only true healer, our LORD GOD. We ask that God's healing, comfort, and love be felt by him and his family and friends.

How Great is Our God,
sing with me,
How Great is Our God,
and all will see,
How Great, How Great is Our GOD.

* this chorus was sung at the prayer vigil Sunday night for Spencer Perkins............

Friday, September 10, 2010

Speak to ME

Sometimes I just want to talk.......about anything. I just love interacting with others.


Communication is very important to me. It makes me feel connected to those around me. It grows relationships. Communicaton is necessary to understand another's point of view. It is the key to learning about others. Talking with someone, helps me understand myself. Maybe it is just me, or maybe it is a "girl" thing, but spending time talking with someone....... well... it just makes me smile.

God wants to talk with me too. When I was first saved, I thought God was there to hear my prayers and my petitions. But, there is so much more to it. A real relationship with God involved both HIM and me. I had to let God speak to me. God does this through his WORD. The Bible is how God communicates with us. By spending time reading and meditating in His word, I begin to "hear" Him speak to me.


Then he added, “Son of man, let all my words sink deep into your own heart first. Listen to them carefully for yourself. Ezekiel 3:10 (New Living Translation)

 
 

Thursday, September 2, 2010

CHOPPED

I just love the Food Network show "CHOPPED"


In this show, chefs are given 4 secret ingredients (some are down right nasty) and they have to use them all in an impressive, edible dish.

As these contestants compete, they are one by one "chopped" if their dish is the least appetizing. Leaving only one winner in the end.

I am so glad that my Lord doesn't CHOP me.... even when my "ingredients are nasty, mean, ...even sinful.

Instead of "chopped" our Master, refines, tests, renews, restores....... into a better, finer, more purposeful person.....

We get second, third, fourth, etc.... chances to be better each time. We don't get eliminated (chopped).

Instead we get MERCY and GRACE....

"Let us therefore draw near with boldness unto the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and may find grace to help us in time of need." Hebrews 4:16